GRE Practice Questions — All Questions
4 questions
Vocabulary in context: In the sentence 'The senator gave an ephemeral endorsement that was forgotten by the next news cycle,' the word 'ephemeral' most nearly means:
- a.enthusiastic
- b.short-lived✓
- c.reluctant
- d.public
'Ephemeral' means lasting a very short time, which fits 'forgotten by the next news cycle.' The other options describe tone or manner rather than duration.
Vocabulary in context: In the sentence 'His candid assessment surprised the board, since most advisers softened their opinions,' the word 'candid' most nearly means:
- a.cautious
- b.lengthy
- c.frank✓
- d.hostile
'Candid' means honest and straightforward, contrasted here with advisers who 'softened their opinions.' 'Frank' is the closest synonym. 'Cautious' is the opposite in this context, and the sentence does not indicate length or hostility.
Vocabulary in context: In the sentence 'The instructions were so verbose that readers struggled to find the key steps,' the word 'verbose' most nearly means:
- a.wordy✓
- b.unclear
- c.technical
- d.outdated
'Verbose' means using more words than needed. The clue that readers 'struggled to find the key steps' amid the text supports 'wordy.' While excessive words can seem unclear, 'verbose' specifically denotes wordiness.
Vocabulary in context: In the sentence 'The mayor's tenacious pursuit of the reform, despite years of setbacks, finally paid off,' the word 'tenacious' most nearly means:
- a.popular
- b.sudden
- c.cautious
- d.persistent✓
'Tenacious' means holding firmly and not giving up, which fits pursuing a goal 'despite years of setbacks.' 'Persistent' is the closest match. The other options do not capture the sense of dogged determination.